Diffuser, air treating plant comprising said diffuser and use of said diffuser for treating air

ABSTRACT

A diffuser for air treating plants that includes a channel having a lateral wall axially extending between upper and a lower end portions defining in the interior thereof a chamber for the passage of an air flow, an inlet configured for introducing air into the chamber, a plurality of throwing through openings defined on the lateral wall for putting in fluid communication the chamber with the outer environment, a plurality of induction through openings defined on the lateral wall for putting in fluid communication the chamber with the outer environment. A predetermined number of throwing through openings of the plurality is spaced from a predetermined number of induction through openings of the plurality along a direction parallel to the axial extension of the channel; the predetermined number of throwing through openings has an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of the predetermined number of induction through openings.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The object of the present invention is a diffuser and an associated air treating plant. For example, the diffuser and the associated plant can find an advantageous use both in the industrial and non-industrial fields for ventilating, heating, conditioning air in the occupied areas of a building (by introducing cooled air, warmed air and/or filtered/humidified air into an environment, for example). It is also an object of the present invention a use of said diffuser for treating air.

STATE OF THE ART

Air treating systems such as heating, ventilating and conditioning plants are known, which consist of ductings through which a suitable quantity of air is transferred which, from a ventilating system (for example a ventilator) and a conditioning system (for example for heating, cooling, and/or humidifying air) is introduced into an occupied area of a building, for example a warehouse.

Such ductings are formed by one or more conveying conduits generally made of a metal sheet, adapted to supply air to one or more diffusers being responsible for diffusing air into the environment of a building.

More specifically, such known diffuser comprises a conduit made of a metal material or a flexible material (fabric, for example), generally exhibiting a circular-type cross-section. The conduit of the diffuser extends mainly along its axis: the conduit exhibits a length substantially greater than its radial size.

The known diffusers are configured for being engaged at a ceiling of a building so that, under a condition of use, the conduit of each diffuser extends horizontally and parallel to the ceiling: the prevalent development direction of each conduit (diffuser) is substantially parallel to the ceiling. The air flow supplied by the service channel to the diffuser extends axially inside the conduit: the air flow inside the conduit (diffuser) exhibits a movement direction parallel to the prevalent development direction of the conduit and therefore substantially parallel to the plane of the ceiling to which the diffuser is associated.

The conduit of the diffuser comprises a plurality of holes defined, in the condition of use of the diffuser, at a lower portion of a lateral wall of the conduit facing away from the ceiling; the holes enable the air axially flowing inside the conduit to exit from this latter and to diffuse in the area of use. Particularly, the holes are configured for enabling to eject the air from the diffuser oppositely to the ceiling to which the diffuser is associated.

For high-induction plants, the holes made on the conduits of the diffusers are suitably calculated during the designing step and are configured for introducing high-speed air into the environment to be treated, by moving a large volume of environment air without creating annoying currents at the ground. In the so-called high-induction diffusers, the air exiting the diffusing holes, attracts, the air of the environment around the diffuser due to the inductive effect, so that the same is moved towards the areas to be conditioned and mixed with the air exiting the diffuser itself; generally, a sequence of flows and/or micro-swirls are generated, which in turn generate turbulences contributing to mix the air introduced in the area of use with the air already present in the same so that the temperature is made uniform.

The air exiting the distributing holes must also fulfill the requirement of not directly hitting the people present in the area of use, at an excessive speed or by an annoying air current. Therefore, the speed of the air exiting the diffusing holes must be equal to a value calculated in order to cancel the residual speed and to ensure an optimal condition for the comfort of the people.

It should be noted that the treatment capability of such plants depends on the ejectable air quantity. For this reason, the distributing conduits are advantageously provided with a plurality of holes which are suitably sized and distributed along all the axial development of the conduit. Specifically, such known conduits comprise a plurality of rows of holes; each row comprises a plurality of spaced holes aligned along a trajectory parallel to the conduit axis.

While the above described known solutions are nowadays widely used for treating the environments in a building, the Applicant has observed that the above described treating plants are not devoid of limitations and inconveniences. Indeed, the Applicant has observed that the known diffusers have a bulky structure and a particular distribution of the holes which make them adapted to treat large areas of use, such as for example industrial warehouses. The particular structure of the known diffusers however does not enable to effectively treat small volume areas such as, for example, a room, an office, a laboratory in a building.

Such inconvenience is much more felt in high-induction plants not capable of suitably exploiting the inductive effect of an axially developing diffuser inside small volume environments.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to substantially solve at least one of the inconveniences and/or disadvantages of the previous solutions.

A first object consists of providing a diffuser for treating air capable of enabling to optimally treat environments in which it operates. Particularly, it is an object to provide a diffuser which can be selectively used, capable of effectively treating both small-sized and large volumes.

Then, it is an object to provide a diffuser by which the residual speed at the ground in the area of use, is always adjustable in order to constantly optimally meet the needs of users.

A further object consists of providing a diffuser and an associated air treating plant which can be easily implemented and easily adjusted with reference to the speed of the air exiting the holes.

An additional object consists of providing a diffuser and an associated air treating plant which can be more freely designed in order to optimally adjust the diffuser/plant itself also after their installation.

Then it is an object to provide a diffuser and an associated high-induction plant capable of generating, also inside small volume environments, effective treatment flows at high speeds without generating annoying flows at the ground.

Moreover, it is an object to provide a diffuser actuatable without requiring complicated alterations of a conventional air treating plant.

These and other objects which will better appear in the following description, are substantially met by a diffuser, an air treating plant and an use of said diffuser according to what is disclosed in one or more of the attached claims and/or in the following aspects, considered alone or in any combination with each other or in a combination with anyone of the attached claims and/or in a combination in anyone of the further aspects or characteristics described in the following.

SUMMARY

The aspects of the invention are herein described.

In a 1st aspect, it is provided a diffuser (1) for air treating plants (100), said diffuser (1) comprising at least one channel (2) having:

-   -   at least one lateral wall (4) axially extending between an upper         end portion (4 a) and a lower end portion (4 b) and defining in         the interior thereof a chamber (3) for the passage of an air         flow,     -   at least one inlet (5) configured for enabling to introduce air         in the chamber (3),     -   at least a plurality of throwing through openings (6) defined on         at least part of the lateral wall (4) of said channel, said         throwing through openings (6) being configured for putting in         fluid communication the chamber (3) with the outer environment         and therefore enabling to diffuse air in an environment,     -   at least a plurality of induction through openings (7) defined         on at least part of the lateral wall (4) of said channel, said         induction through openings (7) being configured for putting in         fluid communication the chamber (3) with the outer environment         and for therefore enabling to diffuse air in the environment,

characterized by the fact that at least a predetermined number of throwing through openings (6) of said plurality are spaced from a predetermined number of induction through openings (7) of said plurality along a direction parallel to the axial extension (A), of the channel (2), said predetermined number of throwing through openings (6) has an air passage through cross-section greater than the air passage cross-section of said predetermined number of induction through openings (7).

In a 2nd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the plurality of throwing through openings (6) comprises at least one group of throwing through openings (6) aligned along a trajectory (T1) transversal (particularly normal) to the axial extension of the channel (2) in order to define a row (F1) of throwing through openings (6),

wherein the plurality of induction through openings (7) comprise at least one group of induction through openings (7) aligned along a respective trajectory (T2) transversal (particularly normal) to the axial extension of the channel (2) for defining a respective row (F2) of induction through openings (7), the induction through openings (7) of the respective group being spaced from the throwing through openings (6) of the respective group along a direction parallel to the axial extension of the channel (2),

wherein at least part of the throwing through openings (6) of the respective group exhibits an air passage cross-section greater than a passage cross-section of at least part of the induction through opening (7) of the respective group.

In a 3rd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, each of the throwing through openings (6) of said plurality exhibits an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of each of the induction through openings (7) of said plurality.

In a 4th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the throwing through openings (6) are defined on at least a perimetral length of the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2), said perimetral length having an angular extension, measured transversally to the axial extension of the channel (2), greater than 90°, particularly greater than 180°.

In a 5th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the throwing through openings (6) are defined along all the perimetral extension of the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2).

In a 6th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, throwing through openings (6), aligned along a trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel (2), are equidistant from each other.

In a 7th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, throwing through openings (6), aligned along a trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel (2), have the same air passage cross-section.

In an 8th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects from 2 to 7, the plurality of throwing through openings (6) comprise a plurality of groups of throwing openings (6) aligned along the axial extension of the channel (2).

In a 9th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects from 2 to 8, the alignment trajectory (T1) of the group of throwing through openings (6) extends along a plane perpendicular to the axial extension of the channel (2).

In a 10th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, all the throwing through openings (6) of said plurality have the same air passage cross-section, particularly have the same shape and size.

In an 11th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, each of the throwing through openings (6) defines an air passage cross-section having an area smaller than 1,400 mm², particularly less than 1,000 mm².

In a 12th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the induction through openings (7) are defined on at least one perimetral length of the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2), said perimetral length exhibiting an angular extension, measured transversally to the axial extension of the channel (2), greater than 90°, particularly greater than 180°.

In a 13th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the induction through openings (7) are defined along all the perimetral extension of the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2).

In a 14th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the induction though openings (7), aligned along a trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel (2), are equidistant from each other.

In a 15th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the induction through openings (7), aligned along a trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel (2), exhibit a same air passage cross-section.

In a 16th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects from 2 to 15, wherein the plurality of induction through openings (7) comprise a plurality of groups of induction openings (7) aligned along the axial extension of the channel (2).

In a 17th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects from 2 to 16, wherein the alignment trajectory (T2) of the group of induction through openings (7) extends along a plane perpendicular to the axial extension of the channel (2).

In an 18th aspect according to the preceding aspect, when this latter depends on anyone of the aspects from 9 to 16, the extension plane of the trajectory (T2) of the group of induction through openings (7) is spaced and parallel to the extension plane of the trajectory (T1) of the group of throwing through openings (6).

In a 19th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, all the induction through openings (7) of said plurality have the same air passage cross-section, particularly have the same shape and size.

In an 20th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, each of the induction through openings (7) defines an air passage cross-section having an area less than 1,000 mm², particularly less than 800 mm².

In a 21st aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, at least one plurality of throwing through openings (6) is interposed between two groups of induction through openings (7).

In 22nd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the channel (2) comprises a first plurality of induction through openings (7 a) defined at the lower end portion (4 b) of the lateral wall, the channel (2) further comprising a second plurality of induction through openings (7 b) distinct from the first plurality of induction openings (7 a) and spaced from the axial extension of the channels (2),

wherein the channel (2) comprises a plurality of throwing through openings (6) interposed between said first and second plurality of induction through openings (7 a, 7 b).

In a 23rd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall (4) has, according to a cross-section perpendicular to an extension axis of the channel (2), a circular-type shape.

In a 24th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the plurality of throwing through openings (6) and the plurality of induction through openings (7) are defined along all the radial development of the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2).

In a 25th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2) has a number of throwing through openings (6), for each linear 10 cm measured along an extension axis of the channel (2), greater than 3, particularly greater than 4, still more particularly comprised between 4 and 15.

In a 26th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall (4) of the channel (2) has a number of induction through openings (7), for each linear 10 cm measured along an extension axis of the channel (2), greater than 3, particularly greater than 6, still more particularly comprised between 6 and 20.

In a 27th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the plurality of throwing through openings (6) define an overall air passage cross-section having a predetermined total area, the ratio of said predetermined total area to a total area of the surface extension of the lateral wall (4) is greater than 100, particularly greater than 200.

In a 28th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the plurality of induction through openings (7) define an overall air passage cross-section having a predetermined total area, the ratio between said predetermined total area and a total area of the surface extension of the lateral wall (4) is greater than 150, particularly greater than 300.

In a 29th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the ratio of the total area of the overall cross-section defined by the plurality of induction through openings (7) to the total area of the overall cross-section defined by the plurality of throwing through openings (6) is greater than 1.

In a 30th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall (4) has, at the upper end portion (4 a), a free edge (4 c) delimiting a general through access of the channel (2),

the channel (2) comprising an upper closing element (8) engaged at the lateral wall (4) at the free edge (4 c) of the upper end portion (4 a), said upper closing element (8) obstructing the general through access,

wherein the inlet (5) of the channel (2) being defined on the upper closing element.

In a 31st aspect according to the preceding aspect, the upper closing element (8) comprises a flat sheet, particularly of metal material, delimited by an outer perimetral edge having a shape at least partially countershaped to the free edge (4 c) of the lateral wall (4).

In a 32nd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall (4) has, at the lower end portion (4 b), a free edge (4 d) delimiting a general passage of the channel (2),

the channel (2) comprising a lower closing element (9) engaged with the lateral wall (4) at the free edge (4 d) of the lower end portion (4 b), said lower closing element (9) obstructing the general passage.

In a 33rd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the lower closing element (9) comprising at least one metal sheet delimited by an outer perimetral edge having a shape at least partially countershaped to the free edge (4 d) of the lower end portion (4 b).

In a 34th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the diffuser comprises at least one element (10) for intercepting the air flow, engaged at least inside the chamber (3) of the channel (2),

said intercepting element (10) comprising a base portion (11) placed at the lateral wall (4), and an access portion (12) spaced from said base portion (11) and defining an access (15).

In a 35th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the intercepting element (10) partitions the chamber (3) in a main chamber (13) and in an auxiliary chamber (14), a fluid communication between the main chamber (13) and auxiliary chamber (14) being established substantially exclusively through the access (15).

In a 36th aspect according to the preceding aspect 34 or 35, wherein the intercepting element (10) is substantially flat and parallel to an upper closing element (8) and/or to a lower closing element (9).

In a 37th aspect according to the preceding aspect 34, 35 or 36, the intercepting element (10) comprises:

-   -   a flow adjusting member (16) engaged at the access (15) and         movable at least between:         -   a completely opened position wherein said member enables the             fluid communication between the main chamber (13) and the             auxiliary chamber (14),         -   and a completely closed position wherein the adjusting             member interdicts the communication between the main chamber             (13) and the auxiliary chamber (14), said adjusting member             (16) being configured for managing the air passage from the             main chamber (13) to the auxiliary chamber (14).

In a 38th aspect according to the preceding aspect, comprising an activating element (17), for example an electric motor, operating on the adjusting member and configured for moving said adjusting member at least between said completely closed and completely opened positions,

optionally the activating element (17) is configured for moving the adjusting member to a plurality of intermediate positions, comprised between said completely closed and completely opened positions, for defining a flow passage opening through the access (15) having a width variable as a function of the positions taken by the adjusting member (16).

In a 39th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the diffuser comprises:

-   -   at least one sensor configured for emitting a monitoring signal         representative of a pressure inside said main chamber (13),     -   at least one control unit connected to at least said sensor (18)         and said activating element (17), said control unit (19) being         configured for:         -   receiving from the sensor (18), the monitoring signal for             estimating a fluid pressure present in said main chamber             (13) of the channel (2),         -   commanding the activating element (17) to move the adjusting             member (16) as a function of the estimated pressure.

In a 40th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the control unit is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the sensor the monitoring signal for estimating a         fluid pressure present in said main chamber (13) of the channel         (2),     -   comparing the value of the estimated pressure inside said main         chamber (13) of the channel (2) with the value of a reference         threshold,     -   following said comparison step, commanding the activating         element (17) to move the adjusting member (16) as a function of         a predetermined relationship between the value of the estimated         pressure inside said main chamber (13) of the channel (2) with         the value of a reference threshold.

In a 41st aspect according to the preceding aspect, the control unit is configured for commanding the activating element (17) to move the adjusting member (16) when the estimated pressure inside the main chamber (13) of the channel, reaches or exceeds the value of the reference threshold.

In a 42nd aspect according to the preceding aspects from 37 to 41, wherein the auxiliary chamber (14) comprises at least one discharge opening adapted to put in fluid communication the adjusting chamber (14) with the outer environment, optionally, comprises a plurality of discharge openings adapted to put in fluid communication the auxiliary chamber (14) with the outer environment.

In a 43rd independent aspect, the air treating plant (100) comprising:

-   -   at least one ventilation system (101) configured for generating         an air flow,     -   at least one diffuser (1) according to anyone of the preceding         aspects, said diffuser being disposed, when in use, with a         prevalent development axis (A) disposed substantially vertical,         a plane containing an alignment trajectory (T1) of the group of         throwing through openings (6) and a plane containing an         alignment trajectory (T2) of the induction through openings (7)         being substantially horizontal under the condition of use of the         diffuser;     -   at least one ducting (102) configured for putting in fluid         communication the ventilation system (101) with the diffuser         (1), for therefore supplying the air flow generated by the         ventilation system (101) to the diffuser (1) through the inlet         (5) of this latter.

In a 44th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the plant comprises:

-   -   at least one general flow adjusting device (104) associated to         the ducting (102) at the inlet (5) of the diffuser (1), said         general flow adjusting device (104) being configured for         managing the passage of air entering the diffuser (1),     -   at least one general sensor (103) disposed inside the ducting         (102) between the ventilation system (101) and inlet (5) of the         diffuser (1), said general sensor (103) being configured for         generating a signal indicative of a pressure and/or flow rate         parameters of a fluid in said ducting (102),     -   at least one control unit (19) connected to the general sensor         (103) and general flow adjusting device (104), the control unit         being configured for:         -   receiving from the general sensor (103), the signal for             estimating a fluid pressure present in said ducting (102),         -   commanding the general fluid flow adjusting device (104) to             adjust the air as a function of the estimated pressure             inside the ducting (102).

In a 45th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the diffuser comprises the general fluid flow adjusting device (104) comprising:

-   -   at least one intercepting element (104 a) engaged inside the         ducting (102) at the inlet (5) of the diffuser (1), said         intercepting element (104 a) being movable with respect to the         ducting (102) at least between:         -   a completely opened position wherein said element (104 a)             enables the fluid communication between the ventilation             system and diffuser (1), and         -   a completely closed position wherein said element (104 a)             interdicts the communication between the ventilation system             and diffuser,     -   at least one activating element (104 b), for example an electric         motor, operating on the intercepting element (104 a) and         configured for moving said element at least between said         completely closed and completely opened positions,

optionally, the activating element (104 b) is configured for moving the intercepting element (104 a) to a plurality of intermediate positions, comprised between said completely closed and completely opened positions, for defining a passage opening of the flow through the inlet (5) of the variable width diffuser as a function of positions taken by the intercepting element with respect to the ducting,

the control unit (19) being configured for:

-   -   receiving from the general sensor (103), the signal for         estimating a fluid pressure present in said ducting (102),     -   commanding the activating element (104 b) of the general fluid         flow adjusting device (104) to move the intercepting element         (104 a) as a function of the estimated pressure.

In a 46th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the control unit (19) is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the general sensor (103), the signal for         estimating a fluid pressure present in said ducting (102),     -   comparing the value of the estimated pressure inside said         ducting (102) with the value of a reference threshold,     -   following said comparison step, commanding the activating         element (104 b) of the general fluid flow adjusting device to         move the intercepting element (104 a) as a function of a         predetermined relationship between the value of the estimated         pressure inside said chamber (3) of the channel (2) with the         value of a reference threshold.

In a 47th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the control unit (19) is configured for commanding the activating element (104 b) of the general fluid flow adjusting device to move the intercepting element (104 b) when the estimated pressure inside the ducting (102) reaches or exceeds the value of the reference threshold.

In a 48th independent aspect, it is provided an use of a diffuser (1) according to anyone of the aspects from 1 to 43 for treating air of at least one area of use in a building, particularly at least in one of the following areas: a room, a laboratory, an office.

In a 49th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the air treating step comprises at least one selected in the group between the following steps:

-   -   conditioning,     -   ventilating,     -   humidifying,     -   heating.

In a 50th aspect according to the preceding aspect 48 or 49, the diffuser (1) is placed along a vertical direction, particularly the axial development direction of the channel (2), under condition of use of the diffuser (1), is substantially vertical.

In a 51st aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects from 48 to 50, the diffuser (1) is associated to a ceiling of an area of use in a building, particularly said diffuser (1) extends transversally, particularly normal, to an extension plane of a ceiling to which said diffuser is associated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described in the following with reference to the attached drawings, given only in an indicative and therefore non-limiting way, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective partially sectioned view of a diffuser according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a lateral view of the diffuser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the diffuser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a partially sectioned lateral view of the diffuser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a detailed view of a diffuser according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an air treating plant;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a diffuser according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective partially sectioned view of the diffuser of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a sectioned view of the diffuser of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the diffuser of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view from the bottom of the diffuser of FIG. 7;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a diffuser according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a perspective partially sectioned view of the diffuser of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a perspective partially sectioned view of the diffuser of FIG. 12.

DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It is observed that in the present detailed description, matching parts illustrated in the different figures are indicated by the same numeral references. The figures could illustrate the object of the invention by not-to-scale representations, therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures regarding the object of the invention could only refer to schematic representations.

In the following description and in the claims, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to an advancement trajectory of the air flow formed by a supplying system (a ventilator, for example), directed to a conduit of a diffuser and which advances in the interior of said conduit to one or more air exiting (emission) holes of the conduits.

The treating plant, herein described and claimed, comprises at least one control unit responsible for controlling the operative conditions implemented by the plant itself and/or by at least one diffuser. Obviously, the control unit can be single or can be formed by a plurality of distinct control units according to designing choices and to operative needs.

The term “control unit” means an electronic-type component which can comprise at least one of: a digital processor (CPU), a memory (or memories), an analog-type circuit, or a combination of one or more digital processing units with one or more analog-type circuits. The control unit can be “configured” or “programmed” to execute some steps: this can be physically implemented by any means enabling to configure or program the control unit. For example, when a control unit comprises one or more CPUs and one or more memories, one or more programs can be stored in suitable memory banks connected to the CPU or CPUs; the program or programs contain instructions which, when are executed by the CPU or CPUs, program or configure the control unit for executing the operations described with reference to the control unit. Alternatively, if the control unit is or comprises an analog-type circuitry, then the circuit of the control unit can be designed for including a circuitry configured, in use, for processing electric signals in order to execute the steps regarding the control unit.

The control unit can comprise one or more digital units, for example of a microprocessor-type, or one or more analog units, or a suitable combination of digital and analog units; the control unit can be configured for coordinating all the operations necessary for executing an instruction or a set of instructions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1 generally indicates a diffuser for treating air useable in both an industrial and non-industrial field for ventilating, heating and conditioning air of at least one occupied area of a building, such as for example a room, an office, a laboratory. The following description refers to three different embodiments.

First Embodiment of the Diffuser

The first embodiment refers to a diffuser 1 as shown in figures from 1 to 6 which comprises a channel 2 exhibiting at least one lateral wall 4 axially extending between an upper end portion 4 a and a lower end portion 4 b. The channel 2 extends substantially along a prevalent development axis A between portions 4 a, 4 b and defines in the interior thereof a chamber 3 for the passage of an air flow. The attached figures illustrate a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the diffuser 1 exhibiting a lateral wall 4 having, all along the development thereof, a cross-section, particularly at least one internal cross-section for the passage of a fluid, whose shape and size are constant; such cross-section being defined perpendicularly to the axial extension of the lateral wall 4 itself (perpendicular to a plane perpendicular to the axial extension direction thereof). The attached figures illustrate in a non-limiting way a configuration of the channel 2, the lateral wall 4 thereof has, according to a cross-section perpendicular to the axial extension of the wall 4 itself, a substantially circular shape: the constant and circular shape is defined along all the axial development of the lateral wall 4. The lateral wall 4 defines substantially a cylinder developing around the axis A (see FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, for example). It is not excluded the possibility of making a channel 2 whose lateral wall 4 exhibits, according to a cross-section perpendicular to the axial extension thereof, a different shape, for example a semicircular, elliptical, polygonal one. Moreover, it is not excluded the possibility of making a lateral wall 4 having, along the axial extension thereof, an outline varying in shape and size (a variable cross-section such as a frustum of cone or a pyramid, for example). Advantageously, but in a non-limiting way, the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2 is made of a sheet material, the thickness thereof is substantially less than a longitudinal and transversal extension of the channel 2 itself. Specifically, the lateral wall 4 is made of a metal material sheet, for example of steel. As schematically shown in the figures for example, the lateral wall 4 has, at the upper end portion 4 a, a free edge 4 c delimiting a general through access of the channel 2. The free edge 4 c defines an outline identical by shape and size to the shape of the cross-section of the overall lateral wall 4 (the lateral wall having a cross-section constant along the overall axial development). As it is visible in FIGS. 1 and 3 for example, the channel 2 comprises an upper closing element 8 engaged with the lateral wall 4 at the free edge 4 c of the upper end portion 4 a; the upper closing element 8 obstructing the general through access. More particularly, the upper closing element 8 comprises a panel or a sheet, particularly of metal material, which is flat and delimited by a perimetral outer edge having a shape at least partially counter shaped to the free edge 4 c of the lateral wall 4: the upper closing element 8 substantially defines a closing plug for the access of the channel 2. More specifically, the upper closing element 8 extends along a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the lateral wall, in other words perpendicular to the axial extension of the lateral wall 4. As it is visible in the attached figures, the upper closing element 8 has an inlet 5 of the channel 2; the inlet 5 is configured for enabling to introduce air into the chamber 3. De facto, the upper closing element 8 (plug) has one or more openings passing through the element itself, and adapted to define the inlet 5. The attached figures illustrate, in a non-limiting way, a configuration of the inlet 5 defined by a single through opening delimited by a free edge having a polygonal shape and particularly a square one (see FIG. 3, for example). Indeed, the upper closing element does not define a blind-type plug but a plug provided with at least one through opening (inlet 5) adapted to enable a fluid communication between the chamber 3 and at least one selected in the group of: a ducting, a ventilation system (for example a ventilator), the outer environment. The attached figures illustrate a configuration of the channel 2 wherein the inlet 5 is defined on the upper closing element 8; however, it is not excluded the possibility of making a closing element comprising a blind plug (without openings) and of defining at least one inlet at the lateral wall 4. The upper closing element 8 can be engaged with the lateral wall 4 by a known type metal collar. It is evident that fixing the upper closing element 8 to the lateral wall 4 can be done by different ways; for example, the sheet of the upper closing element 8 can be wound (curled) with the free edge 4 c. Alternatively, the upper closing element 8 can be fixed to the lateral wall by welding, gluing or by fixing devices, such as rivets and/or screws.

According to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the inlet 5 is delimited by a collar 21, for example polygonal, which has a top square shape for enabling to be more simply coupled to the channels of the plant which convey the treated air to the diffuser 1. A wall 21 a of the collar 21, emerging away from the inlet 5, exhibits a predetermined number (5 for each side in the example) of discharging hatches 22 closed by respective removable plugs 23. In this way, when design mistakes or installation tolerances cause an excessive pressure/flow inside the diffuser which consequently generates flows at the ground or vibrations/noises, these latter can be prevented by opening a necessary and sufficient number of such hatches 22 for discharging the surplus of air into the environment for establishing again the correct pressure inside the diffuser 1. Moreover, the lateral wall 4 has, at the lower end portion 4 b, a free edge 4 d delimiting a general passage of the channel 2. The free edge 4 d is opposite to the free edge 4 c of the upper end portion 4 a. The free edge 4 d of the lower end portion 4 b of the lateral wall defines a shape identical in shape and size to the shape of the cross-section of the overall lateral wall 4 (the lateral wall exhibiting a constant cross-section along the overall axial development). Specifically, the free edge 4 d has a shape and size identical (in the case illustrated in the attached figures, a circular shape) to the shape of the edge 4 c of the upper end portion 4 a. As it is visible in the figures for example, moreover the channel 2 comprises a lower closing element 9 engaged with the lateral wall 4 at the free edge 4 d of the lower end portion 4 b; the lower closing element 9 obstructing the general passage of the channel. More particularly, the closing element 9 comprises a panel or sheet, particularly of metal material, delimited by an outer perimetral edge having a shape at least partially countershaped to the free edge 4 d of the lateral wall 4: the closing element 9 substantially defines a plug closing the general passage of the channel 2. As for the upper closing element 8, the lower closing element 9 can be engaged with the lateral wall 4 by means of a known-type metal collar or by winding (curling) the sheet of the closing element 9 with the free edge 4 d. Alternatively, the lower closing element 9 can be fixed to the lateral wall 4 by welding, gluing or by fixing devices such as rivets and/or screws. The lateral wall 4, upper closing element 8 and lower closing element 9 delimit the chamber 3 of the channel 2 adapted to receive an air flow through the inlet 5.

As it is visible in the attached figures, the channel 2 further comprises a plurality of throwing through openings 6 defined on at least part of the lateral wall 4: the throwing through openings 6 are configured for putting in fluid communication the chamber 3 with the outer environment and for therefore enabling to diffuse air into an environment. The throwing openings 6 implement passages for diffusing the air present in the chamber 3 and particularly introduced in the chamber through the inlet 5. Specifically, the plurality of throwing through openings 6 comprise at least a group of throwing through openings 6 aligned along a transversal trajectory T1, particularly perpendicular, to the axial extension A of the channel 2 for defining a row F1 of throwing openings 6. The throwing openings 6 of the row F1, aligned along the trajectory T1, are equidistant from each other and advantageously have a same passage cross-section. Particularly, the throwing openings 6 of the row F1 are substantially defined on at least one plane perpendicular to the axial extension of the lateral wall, optionally perpendicular to the extension axis A of the channel 2. The plurality of throwing through openings of the row F1 itself advantageously have, besides the same air passage cross-section, the same shape (outline) and size. The attached figures illustrate, in a non-limiting way, a configuration of the openings 6 exhibiting all the same circular shape; it is not excluded the possibility of making throwing openings 6 having a shape—elliptical or polygonal, for example—and particularly of making through openings having different shape and size. Still more particularly, the throwing through openings 6 are defined on at least a perimetral length of the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2; the perimetral length has an angular extension, measured transversally to the axial extension of the channel 2, more than 90°, particularly greater than 180°. Advantageously, the throwing through openings 6 are defined along all the perimetral extension of the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2. The attached figures illustrate a configuration of the lateral wall 4 having a circular cross-section; with such configuration, the throwing openings 6 are defined along all the diameter of the wall 4. The channel 2 can comprise only one group or row F1 of throwing openings 6 or can comprise a plurality of groups of throwing openings 6 each exhibiting openings 6 aligned along a respective row F1: each row F1 is spaced, particularly aligned, along the axial extension of the channel 2. Advantageously, all the throwing through openings 6 defined on the channel 2 are equidistant from each other along the respective alignment trajectory and if there are plural rows F1, they are also equidistant along the axial extension of the channel 2. From the quantitative point of view, the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2 has a number of throwing through openings 6, at each linear 10 cm measured along the axial extension of the channel 2, greater than 3, particularly greater than 4, still more particularly comprised between 4 and 15. From the dimensional point of view, each throwing through opening 6 defines an air passage cross-section having an area less than 1,500 mm², particularly less than 1,000 mm². The plurality of throwing through openings 6 define an overall air passage cross-section having a predetermined total area greater than 1,000 mm², particularly comprised between 100 and 900 mm². The ratio of the predetermined total area (the overall passage area defined by all the throwing openings 6 present on the diffuser 1) to a total area of the surface extension of the lateral wall 4, is greater than 100, particularly greater than 200. As it is visible in the attached figures, the channel 2 further comprises a plurality of induction through openings 7 also defined on at least part of the lateral wall 4: the induction through openings 7 are configured for putting in fluid communication the chamber 3 with the outer environment and for therefor enabling to diffuse air in the environment. The induction openings 7, as the throwing openings 6, implement passages for diffusing the air present in the chamber 3 and, particularly, introduced in the chamber through the inlet 5. Specifically, the plurality of induction through openings 7 comprise at least one group of induction through openings 7 aligned along a trajectory T2 transversal, particularly perpendicular, to the axial extension of the channel 2 for defining a row F2 of induction openings 7. The induction openings 7 of the row F2, aligned along the trajectory T2, are equidistant from each other and advantageously have the same passage cross-section. Particularly, the induction openings 7 of the row F2 are substantially defined on a plane perpendicular to the axial extension of the lateral wall, optionally perpendicular to the extension axis A of the channel 2. The plurality of induction through openings 7 of the row F2 itself advantageously have, besides the same air passage cross-section, the same shape (outline) and size. The attached figures illustrate in a non-limiting way a configuration of the openings 7 exhibiting all the same circular shape; it is not excluded the possibility of making induction openings 7 having an elliptical or polygonal shape, for example—and particularly of making through openings 7 having different shape and size.

Still more particularly, the induction through openings 7 are defined on at least one perimetral length of the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2; the perimetral length has an angular extension, measured transversally to the axial extension of the channel 2, greater than 90°, particularly greater than 180°. Advantageously, the induction through openings 7 are defined along all the perimetral extension of the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2. The attached figures illustrate a configuration of the lateral wall 4 having a circular cross-section; in such configuration, the induction openings 7 are defined along all the diameter of the wall 4. The channel 2 can comprise only one group or row F2 of induction openings 7 or can comprise a plurality of groups of induction openings 7, each of them has openings 7 aligned along a respective row F2: each row F2 is spaced, particularly aligned, along the axial extension of the channel 2. Advantageously, all the induction through openings 7 defined on the channel 2, are equidistant from each other along the respective alignment trajectory, and if there are plural rows F2 they are equidistant also along the axial extension of the channel 2. From a quantitative point of view, the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2 has a number of throwing through openings 7 for each linear 10 cm measured along the axial extension of the channel 2, greater than 4, particularly greater than 6, still more particularly comprised between 6 and 20. At least a predetermined number of throwing through openings 6 of the plurality, is distanced from a predetermined number of induction through openings 7 of the plurality along a direction parallel to the axial extension of the channel 2. Particularly, the extension plane of the trajectory T2 of the group of induction through openings 7 is distanced and parallel to the extension plane of the trajectory T1 of the group of the throwing through openings 6. FIGS. 2, 4 and 8 schematically show an embodiment of the diffuser wherein at least a plurality of throwing through openings 6 is interposed between two groups of induction through openings 7. Particularly, the channel 2 comprises a first plurality of induction through openings 7 a defined at the lower end portion 4 b of the lateral wall; moreover, the channel 2 comprises a second plurality of induction through openings 7 b distinct from the first plurality of induction openings 7 a and distanced from the axial extension of the channel 2: the channel 2 comprises a plurality of throwing through openings 6 (one or more groups of openings 6 aligned along respective trajectories T1 for defining one or more rows F1) interposed between the first and second induction openings 7 a, 7 b. Advantageously, the predetermined number of throwing through openings 6 has an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of the predetermined number of induction through openings 7. Particularly, at least part of the throwing through openings 6 of a respective group (the openings defining a row F1 and aligned along the trajectory T1) exhibit an air passage cross-section greater than a passage cross-section of at least part of the induction through openings 7 of a respective group (the openings 7 defining a row F2 and aligned along the trajectory T2). Preferably but in a non-limiting way, each of the throwing through openings 6 has an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of each of the induction through openings 7. From the dimensional point of view, each induction through opening 7 defines an air passage cross-section having an area less than 1,000 mm², particularly less than 800 mm². The plurality of induction through openings 7 defines an overall air passage cross-section having a predetermined total area (the overall passage area defined by all the induction openings 7 present on the diffuser 1). The ratio of the predetermined total area to a total area of the surface extension of the lateral wall 4 is greater than 1/100, particularly greater than 1/50. The ratio of the total area of the overall cross-section defined by the plurality of induction through openings 7 to the total area of the overall cross-section defined by the plurality of the throwing through openings 6 is greater than 1. The number of (throwing and induction) holes present on the diffuser 1 and the size thereof are suitably calculated for defining an induction diffuser or also the pulse diffuser capable of introducing high speed air into the environment to be treated by moving a large mass of the environment air without generating annoying current at the ground. The induction openings 7 (the smaller holes) are substantially configured for selecting the environment air quantity to be mixed with the delivery air while the throwing openings 6 (the larger holes) are configured for selecting a direction, speed and distance at which the mass of the environment air pre-mixed by the induction holes 7 is conveyed. De facto, the delivery air exiting the induction openings 7 at high speed generates strong micro-swirls outside the chamber 3 (in the environment) which cause a substantial depression near the perforated area which by induction suctions a quantity of air which is about thirty times greater than the blown air quantity. In the high induction (or pulse) conduits, the air exiting the induction openings generates an inductive effect on the surrounding air and on the air ejected from the throwing openings 6, this in turn entails a mixing and an uniform diffusion inside the environment of a building with a drop of the exiting flow speed at a distance of few centimeters from the holes. In this way, it is obtained an optimal movement of the air with an abrupt decrease of the speed at a short distance from the diffuser and a high homogenizing of the environment temperature.

The diffuser, due to the presence of the throwing 6 and induction openings 7 instead of simply diffusing the delivery air into the environment, they “throw” it towards the area to be treated and therefore use the delivery air for “thrusting” and moving all the volume of the environment air.

The diffuser 1 can comprise a channel 2 (as hereinbefore described) comprising only a lateral wall 4, an upper closing element 8 and a lower closing element 9; the lower closing element 9 can comprise a blind plug of planarly extending sheet. FIG. 1 illustrates an element 10 for intercepting the air flow, engaged inside the chamber 3 of the channel 2. The intercepting element 10 comprises a disc extending from a base portion 11, placed at the lateral wall 4, to an access portion 12. Advantageously, the intercepting element 10 can be a panel or can be also made of a sheet, for example a metal sheet. The intercepting element 10 is housed inside the chamber 3 of the channel 2 and separates the interior of the same in a main chamber 13 and in an auxiliary chamber 14; the intercepting element 10 comprises an access 15 adapted to put in fluid communication the main chamber 13 with the auxiliary chamber 14. Advantageously, the auxiliary chamber 14 comprises at least one discharging opening adapted to put in fluid communication the auxiliary chamber 14 itself with the outer environment. Optionally, the auxiliary chamber 14 comprises a plurality of discharging openings adapted to put in fluid communication the auxiliary chamber 14 with the outer environment. De facto, the air introduced into the chamber 3 through the inlet 5, can reach the auxiliary chamber 14 through the access 15 and therefore lastly exits the channel 2 through one or more discharging openings 20 of the auxiliary chamber 14. Particularly, the discharging openings 20 are defined on the lateral wall 4 and are aligned along a third trajectory T3 parallel to the previous ones, with the presence of a large number of aligned perforations. There are a plurality of discharging openings 20 for each angular portion of 90°. The intercepting element 10 of the shown embodiment of the diffuser can comprise a flow adjusting member 16 engaged at the access 15 of the intercepting element 10, relatively movable at least between:

-   -   a completely opened position, wherein the element 16 enables a         fluid communication between the main chamber 13 and auxiliary         chamber 14, and     -   a completely closed position, wherein the adjusting member 16         interdicts the communication between the main chamber 13 and         auxiliary chamber 14.

The adjusting member 16 is configured for managing the air passage from the main chamber 13 to the auxiliary chamber 14. The flow adjusting member 16 can comprise, for example, one or more closing doors relatively rotatively movable as schematically shown, for example, in FIGS. 1 and 4. Advantageously, the diffuser 1 can further comprise an activating element 17, for example an electric motor, operating (active) on the adjusting member 16, and configured for moving the adjusting member 16 at least between the completely closed and completely opened positions. Particularly, the activating element 17 is configured for moving the adjusting member 16 to a plurality of intermediate positions comprised between the completely closed and completely opened positions, for defining a flow passage opening through the access 15 having a width variable as a function of the positions taken by the adjusting member 16 with respect to the container 13. Based on the movement of the member 16, it is possible to adjust the air mass passing through the access 15 and therefore to adjust the air passage from the main chamber 13 to the auxiliary chamber 14. Moreover, the diffuser 1 can comprise at least one sensor 18 housed inside the chamber 3 of the channel 2 and configured for emitting a monitoring signal indicative of a pressure inside the chamber 3 of the channel 2, particularly outside the auxiliary chamber 14 of the container 13. Moreover, the diffuser can comprise a control unit 19 connected to the sensor 18 and activating element 17; the control unit 19 is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the sensor 18, the monitoring signal for         estimating a fluid pressure inside the chamber 3 of the channel         2, particularly outside the auxiliary chamber 14 of the         container 13,     -   commanding the activating element 17 to move the adjusting         member 16 as a function of the estimated pressure.

Particularly, the control unit 19 is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the sensor 18, the monitoring signal for         estimating a fluid pressure inside the main chamber 13,     -   comparing the value of the estimated pressure inside the main         chamber 13 with the value of a reference threshold,     -   upon the comparison step, commanding the activating element 17         to move the adjusting member 16 as a function of a predetermined         relationship between the value of the estimated pressure inside         the main chamber 13 of the channel 2 with the value of a         reference threshold.

Advantageously but in a non-limiting way, the control unit 19 is configured for commanding the activating element 17 to move the adjusting member 16 when the estimated pressure inside the main chamber 13 of the channel arrives at or exceeds the value of the reference threshold. In this way, the control unit 16 is configured for managing possible undesired overpressure conditions inside the main chamber 13 by opening the member 16 and therefore discharging the air in the auxiliary chamber 14.

Moreover, the diffuser 1 can comprise an additional sensor housed in the auxiliary chamber 14 and configured for emitting a monitoring signal indicative of a pressure of the air in the chamber 14. The control unit 19 is connected to the sensor and is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the sensor the monitoring signal for estimating a         fluid pressure present in the auxiliary chamber 14,     -   comparing the value of the estimated pressure inside said main         chamber 13 of the channel 2 with the value of a reference         threshold,     -   upon the comparison step, commanding the activating element 17         to move the adjusting member 16 as a function of a predetermined         relationship between the value of the estimated pressure inside         said chamber 14.

The movement of the adjusting member 16 can be therefore commanded by the control unit 19 as a function of at least one of:

-   -   an estimated value of the air pressure inside the main chamber         13,     -   an estimated value of the air pressure inside the auxiliary         chamber 14,     -   an estimated value of the pressure difference between the main         chamber 13 and auxiliary chamber 14.

Then, as it is more visible, the diffuser further comprises a plurality of substantially flat septa 24 substantially parallel to each other and housed in the chamber 3. The septa can be defined by flat disc-shaped elements formed by panels, for example.

The septa define among each other a plurality of gaps 25 extending transversally to the main development axis A of the channel 2; particularly, such gaps are delimited by the lower face of a septum and by the upper face of the immediately following septum. All the gaps are peripherally opened at the area facing the lateral wall (4). Each septum 24 has a central opening 26 (usually, but not necessarily circular—even though polygonal or irregular openings are also possible) substantially aligned with the main development axis A of the channel 2. Specifically, the central openings 26 of following septa 24 get smaller away from the inlet 5. The septum 24 nearest to the inlet 5, has indeed the widest central opening, the second septum reduces the size of the opening which is still wider than all the septa immediately consecutive to it. By observing from the top, the diffuser (FIGS. 3 and 10), it is possible to recognize the gradually decreasing openings. One or more of the septa 24 are movable, or can be placed in a variable position, along the axis A of the channel 2, varying their respective distance. In particular, each septum 24 is movable with respect to one other, in order to allow a variation of the distance in between. The septa 24 are movable approaching and moving away from the upper closing element 8, remaining parallel to each other: the possibility to vary the position of the septa 24 allows a more flexibility in the air diffusion, mostly to reduce noise during operation and to change airflow direction. In addition, the variation of the septa 24 position allows to favor the air to pass through the throwing through openings 6 or the through openings 7: in other words, this allows to a user to decide whether directing the air flow towards the throwing through openings 6 or the through openings 7. This configuration enables to better direct the airflow towards the openings on the lateral wall 4 by causing the air to exit as more as possible perpendicular to the axis A and at correct pressures.

From a structural point of view, there are a plurality of constraining rods 27 maintaining the septa in position, equidistanced and parallel to each other (see FIGS. 4 and 9). The constraining rods 27 are preferably arranged parallel to each other and parallel to the axis A of the channel 2. The septa 24 comprise a plurality of holes through which the constraint rods 27 go through, allowing each septum to be bind to one or more of the constraining rods 27. According to a further embodiment, the constraining rods 27 allows, at least during servicing or installation of the diffuser 1, the septa 24 to move along the axis A of the channel 2. In particular, the constraining rods 27 are threaded bars comprising supporting nuts 50 movable along the threaded bar and carrying the septa 24, in order to keep them in a fixed position. A position variation along the threaded bars of the nuts 50 supporting a septum 24, determines a movement of the septum 24 along the axis A of the channel 2 and therefore a variation of the distance between the septa 24. The constraining rods 27 are arranged at least partially inside the chamber 3 at a peripheral zone of the diffuser 1.

Lastly, a predetermined number of eyebolts 28 engaged to the top of the diffuser (to the upper closing element 8, for example) enable to hold the diffuser itself in its vertical operative position emerging downwards from the top of the structure.

Second Embodiment of the Diffuser

A diffuser 1 according to a second embodiment is shown in figures from 7 to 11, which comprises all the elements previously described except for the collar 21 and the discharging hatches 22 (which may or may be not present depending on the user needs). In particular, the diffuser 1 according to the second embodiment comprises the channel 2, the lateral wall 4, the induction through openings 7, the throwing through openings 6, the upper closing element 8 and the inlet 5 through which the air is allowed to enter into the chamber 3. The second embodiment may also comprise the plurality of septa 24 inside the chamber 3, which can be movable along the axis A of the channel 2, and the intercepting element 10 combined with the adjusting member 16 and the activating element 17.

The diffuser 1 comprises an upper cap 30, which replaces the functionality of the discharging hatches 22 of the collar 21. The upper cap 30 is in the shape of a panel or a sheet, particularly of metal material, which is flat and extending along a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the lateral wall, in other words perpendicular to the axial extension of the lateral wall 4 or to the axis A of the channel 2.

The upper cap 30 is faced to and arranged above the upper closing element 8, substantially parallel to and spaced from it, in particular spaced from the lateral wall 4 of the diffuser: therefore the upper closing element 8 is interposed between the upper cap 30 and the chamber 3 with respect to the axis A of the channel 2. The upper cap 30 links to the channel 2 by the constraining rods 27, the latter emerging from the upper closing element 8 and coupling with the upper cap 30. Alternatively, the upper cap 30 can be linked to the upper closing element 8 by pillars interposed in between and coupled to both the upper cap 30 and the closing element 8. The upper cap 30 and the channel 2, in particular the upper cap 30 and the upper closing element 8 of the channel 2, are reciprocally movable, allowing varying their distance. The distance between the upper cap and the upper closing element 8 defines an upper lateral opening 22 a, arranged between the upper end portion 4 a of the wall 4 and the upper cap 30. The upper lateral opening 22 a can vary its extension by changing the distance between the upper cap 30 and the upper closing element 8: by reducing the distance between the upper closing element 8 and the upper cap 30, the extension of the upper lateral opening 22 a will be reduced accordingly and vice versa. The upper lateral opening 22 a acts as the discharging hatches 22 of the collar 21 previously described: when design mistakes or installation tolerances cause an excessive pressure/flow inside the diffuser which consequently generates flows at the ground or vibrations/noises, these latter can be prevented by regulating (e.g., increasing) the distance between the upper cap 30 and the upper closing element 8, increasing therefore the extension of the upper lateral opening 22 a. This allows to discharge the surplus of air into the environment for establishing again the correct pressure inside the diffuser 1. The regulation of the upper lateral opening 22 a may also be used to switch between heating to cooling condition when different air flows are required and therefore, more or less air needs to be discharged to avoid problems in the induction effects through the openings 6 and 7. The constraining rods 27 are threaded bars comprising supporting nuts 50 movable along the threaded bar and carrying the upper cap 30, in order to keep it in a fixed position. A position variation of the nuts 50 supporting the upper cap 30 along the threaded bars determines a movement of the upper cap 30 along the axis A of the channel 2 and a variation of the distance between the upper cap 30 and the upper closing element 8.

The upper cap 30 has a passage aperture 31 delimited by a perimeter 31 a and configured for enabling the air to pass through it, towards the inlet 5 of the upper closing element 8 and inside the chamber 3. De facto, the upper cap 30 may have one or more openings passing through the element itself, and adapted to define the passage aperture 31 of the upper cap 30. The attached FIGS. 7 to 11 illustrate, in a non-limiting way, a configuration wherein the passage aperture 31 of the upper cap 30 is defined by a single through opening delimited by a free edge having a polygonal shape and particularly a square one (see FIG. 7, for example). The passage aperture 31 may also present a circular or elliptic shape. The passage aperture 31 of the upper cap 30 enables a fluid communication between the chamber 3 of the channel 2 and at least one selected in the group of a ducting, a ventilation system (for example a ventilator), and the outer environment. The passage aperture 31 is aligned with the inlet 5 of the upper closing element 8 along the axis A of the channel 2: preferably, the passage aperture 31 is also counter shaped to the inlet 5 of the upper closing element 8 and presents an extension bigger than the one of the inlet 5, as shown in FIG. 10.

As it is visible in the attached figures from 7 to 11, the upper cap 30 presents a radial extension bigger than the one of the upper closing element 8: in more detail, the upper cap 30 is a disk having a circular shape and presenting a diameter bigger than the one of the upper closing element 8. In addition, the upper cap 30 presents a radial extension bigger than the one defined by the lateral wall 4: in particular, the upper cap 30 presents a diameter bigger than the one of the lateral wall 4. In other words, the upper cap 30 radially emerges from a radial size of the channel 2 as clearly shown in FIG. 8. This geometry allows to better direct discharged air horizontally.

Alternatively, the upper cap 30 may have a radial extension equal or substantially equal to the radial extension of the upper closing element 8.

During operation, the diffuser 1 allows the air to come from a ventilation system, sequentially go through the passage aperture 31 of the upper cap 30 and the inlet 5 of the channel 2 and enter into the chamber 3: in case of excessive pressure, some of the air passes through the upper lateral opening 22 a between the upper cap 30 and the upper closing element 8 diffusing in the surrounding environment. Following, the air which entered the chamber 3 spreads between the septa 24 and leaves the diffuser 1 by passing through the throwing through openings 6 defined on the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2, diffusing in the surrounding environment.

A predetermined number of eyebolts 28 are engaged to the upper cap 30, in particular to an end portion of the constraining rods 27 at the level of the upper cap 30: the eyebolts 28 enables to hold the diffuser itself in its vertical operative position emerging downwards from the top of the structure.

Third Embodiment of the Diffuser 1

A diffuser 1 according to a third embodiment is shown in figures from 12 to 14, and comprises all the elements previously described according to the first embodiment except for lower closing element 9 and the collar 21 (which may be or may be not present). In particular, the diffuser 1 according to the second embodiment comprises the channel 2, the lateral wall 4, the induction through openings 7, the throwing through openings 6, the upper closing element 8 and the inlet 5 through which the air is allowed to enter into the chamber 3. According to the third embodiment, inlet 5 of the upper closing element 8 may be directly coupled to a ducting or a ventilation system. The diffuser 1 according to the third embodiment also comprises the plurality of septa 24 inside the chamber 3, which can be movable along the axis A of the channel 2, and the intercepting element 10 combined with the adjusting member 16 and the activating element 17.

The lower closing element 9 of the first embodiment is replaced by a lower cap 40 in the shape of a panel or a sheet, particularly of metal material, which is flat and extending along a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the lateral wall, in other words perpendicular to the axial extension of the lateral wall 4 or to the axis A of the channel 2. The lower cap 40 is faced to and arranged below the lower end portion 4 b of the lateral wall 4: in more detail the lower cap 40 faces the intercepting element 10, and is substantially parallel to and spaced from it: therefore the intercepting element 10 is interposed between the lower cap 40 and the chamber 3 with respect to the axis A of the channel 2. The lower cap 40 links to the channel 2 by the constraining rods 27, the latter emerging downwards from the intercepting element 10 and coupling with the lower cap 40. Alternatively, the lower cap 40 can be linked to the intercepting element 10 by pillars interposed in between and coupled to both the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10. The lower cap 40 and the channel 2, in particular the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10 of the channel 2, are reciprocally movable, allowing varying their distance. The distance between the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10 defines a lower lateral opening 22 b, arranged in particular between the lower end portion 4 b of the wall 4 and the lower cap 40. The lower lateral opening 22 b defined between the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10 can vary its extension by changing the distance between the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10: by reducing the distance between the intercepting element 10 and the lower cap 40, the extension of the lower lateral opening 22 a will be reduced accordingly and vice versa. The lower lateral opening 22 b acts as the discharging hatches 22 of the collar 21 previously described according to the first embodiment or as the lower lateral opening 22 a defined between the upper cap 30 and the upper closing element 8: when design mistakes or installation tolerances cause an excessive pressure/flow inside the diffuser which consequently generates flows at the ground or vibrations/noises, these latter can be prevented by increasing the distance between the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10, increasing therefore the extension of the lower lateral opening 22 b in between. This allows to discharge the surplus of air into the environment for establishing again the correct pressure inside the diffuser 1. The constraining rods 27 are threaded bars comprising supporting nuts 50 movable along the threaded bar and carrying the lower cap 40, in order to keep it in a fixed position. A position variation of the nuts 50, supporting the lower cap 40, along the threaded bars determines a movement of the lower cap 40 along the axis A of the channel 2 and a variation of the distance between the lower cap 40 and the intercepting element 10.

As it is visible in the attached figures from 12 to 14, the lower cap 40 presents a radial extension bigger than the one of the intercepting element 10: in particular, the lower cap 40 is a disk having a circular shape and presenting a diameter bigger than the one of the intercepting element 10. Thus, the lower cap 40 presents a radial extension, in particular a diameter, bigger than the one defined by the lateral wall 4. In other words, the lower cap 40 radially emerges from a radial size of the channel 2 as clearly shown in FIG. 12. This configuration allows to direct air escaping from the lower lateral opening to be directed horizontally.

In an alternative embodiment, the radial extension of the lower cap 40 may be equal or substantially equal to the radial extension of the lower element 9.

The diffuser according to the third embodiment comprises the adjusting member 16 of the intercepting element 10, which allows the air to pass from the chamber 3 towards the upper

During operation, the diffuser 1 allows the air to come from a ventilation system, sequentially go through the inlet 5 of the channel 2 and enter into the chamber 3: following, some of the air which entered the chamber 3 spreads between the septa 24 and leaves the diffuser 1 by passing through the throwing through openings 6 defined on the lateral wall 4 of the channel 2, diffusing in the surrounding environment. In case of excessive pressure, some of the air passes through the flow adjusting member 16 of the intercepting element 10 down to the lower cap 40, leaving the diffuser through the lower lateral opening 22 b

According to the third embodiment, both the adjusting member 16 of the intercepting element 10 and the lower lateral opening 22 b allows for controlling the discharge of the excess of air pressure.

A predetermined number of eyebolts 28 are engaged to the upper closing element 8, in particular to an end portion of the constraining rods 27 at the level of the upper closing element 8: the eyebolts 28 enables to hold the diffuser itself in its vertical operative position emerging downwards from the top of the structure.

Treating Plant

Moreover, it is an object of the present description an air treating plant 100, for example for conditioning, ventilating, humidifying areas of use in buildings. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the plant 100 can comprise at least one ventilating system 101, for example a ventilator, configured for generating an air flow. Further, the plant 100 comprises at least one diffuser 1 according to one or more of the attached claims and/or according to one embodiment of the above given description. FIG. 13 illustrates in a non-limiting way a configuration of the plant 100 comprising two diffusers 1; it is not excluded the possibility of making a plant 100 comprising just one diffuser 1 or a number of diffusers greater than two. The plant 100 comprises a ducting 102 configured for putting in fluid communication the ventilation system 101 with the diffuser 1, then an air flow generated by the ventilation system 101 is supplied to the diffuser 1 through the inlet 5 of this latter. The ducting 102 can comprise one or more conduits of sheet material, for example, of metal sheet or of fabric, directly connecting an outlet of the ventilation system 101 with the inlet of the diffuser. Advantageously but in a non-limiting way, the ducting 102 is configured for being stably fixed to a ceiling of a building so that such ducting 102, under a condition of use of the plant 100, extends parallel to the ceiling and particularly along a substantially horizontal plane. FIG. 6 illustrates a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of the invention, wherein the plant 100 comprises at least one general flow adjusting device 104 associated to the ducting 102 and placed at the inlet 5 of each diffuser 1; the general flow adjusting device 104 can comprise, for example, one or more doors movable with respect to the ducting and exhibiting a structure similar to the adjusting member 16 of the diffuser 1. The general flow adjusting device 104 is configured for managing the passage of the air entering the diffuser 1. Particularly, the general flow adjusting device 104 can comprise:

-   -   at least one intercepting element 104 a engaged inside the         ducting 102 at the inlet 5 of each diffuser 1, the intercepting         element 104 a being movable with respect to the ducting 102 at         least between:         -   a completely opened position wherein the element 104 a             enables the fluid communication between the ventilation             system and diffuser 1, and         -   a completely closed position wherein the element 104 a             interdicts the communication between the ventilation system             and the diffuser,     -   at least one activating element 104 b, for example an electric         motor, operating on the intercepting element 104 a and         configured for moving the element at least between the         completely closed and completely opened positions.

The activating element 104 b is configured for moving the intercepting element 104 to a plurality of intermediate positions, comprised between the completely closed and completely opened positions, for defining a flow passage opening through the inlet 5 of the diffuser having a width variable as a function of the positions taken by the intercepting element with respect to the ducting. Moreover, the plant 100 can advantageously comprise at least one general sensor 103 disposed inside the ducting 102 between the ventilation system 101 and the inlet 5 of each diffuser 1. In other words, the sensor 103 is placed upstream each diffuser 1 of the plant according to an advancement direction of the generated fluid flow of the system 101 inside the ducting 102. The general sensor 103 is configured for generating a signal indicative of a pressure and/or fluid flow rate parameters in the ducting 102. Moreover, the plant can comprise a control unit 19 (the control unit can be that of a diffuser 1 or can be a control unit distinct from the unit of a diffuser 1) connected to the general sensor 103 and general flow adjusting member 104; the control unit is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the general sensor 103, the signal for estimating         a fluid pressure present in the ducting 102,     -   commanding the general fluid flow adjusting device 104 to adjust         the air as a function of estimated pressure inside the ducting         102.

Specifically, the control unit 19 is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the general sensor 103, the signal for estimating         a fluid pressure present in the ducting 102,     -   commanding the activating element 104 b of the general fluid         flow adjusting device 104 to move the intercepting element 104 a         as a function of the estimated pressure.

Advantageously, the control unit 19 is configured for:

-   -   receiving from the general sensor 103, the signal for estimating         a fluid pressure present in the ducting 102,     -   comparing the value of the estimated pressure inside the ducting         102 with the value of a reference threshold,     -   upon the comparison step, commanding the activating element 104         b of the general fluid flow adjusting device to move the         intercepting element 104 a as a function of a predetermined         relationship between the value of the estimated pressure inside         the chamber 3 of the channel 2 with the value of a reference         threshold.

Preferably, but in a non-limiting way, the control unit 19 is configured for commanding the activating element 104 b of the general fluid flow adjusting device to move the intercepting element 104 a when the estimated pressure inside the ducting 102 arrives at or exceeds the value of the reference threshold.

Use of the Diffuser

Moreover, it is an object of the present description a use of the diffuser 1 according to one of the embodiments of the above given description and according to anyone of the attached claims for treating air in an area of use in a building, particularly in at least one of the following areas: a room, a laboratory, an office.

For example, the air treating step can comprise at least one selected in the group among the following steps: conditioning, ventilating, humidifying, and heating. The diffuser, during the use, is configured for being disposed along a vertical direction and particularly transversally to a ceiling of the area of use; for example, the diffuser 1, under a condition of use, has the extension axis thereof placed transversally, particularly normal, to a development plane of a ceiling to which the diffuser is associated. In a condition of use, the diffuser 1 exhibits throwing 6 and induction through holes 7 defined on the lateral wall 4 extending along an axial vertical direction; the inlet 5 or the upper cap 30 face the ceiling of an area of use in the building, while the lower end portion 4 b or the lower cap 40 faces the ground. 

1. Vertical diffuser for air treating plants, said diffuser comprising at least one channel having: a lateral wall axially extending between an upper end portion and a lower end portion and defining in the interior thereof a chamber for the passage of an air flow, an inlet in correspondence of the upper end portion for introducing air into the chamber, a plurality of throwing through openings defined on the lateral wall of said channel and aligned along a trajectory transversal to an axial extension of the channel for defining a row of throwing through openings, said throwing through openings putting in fluid communication the chamber with the outer environment and enabling to diffuse air in the outer environment, a plurality of induction through openings defined on the lateral wall of said channel and aligned along a respective trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel for defining a respective row of induction through openings, said induction through openings putting in fluid communication the chamber with the outer environment and enabling to diffuse air in the outer environment, wherein a predetermined number of throwing through openings of said plurality of throwing through openings is spaced from a predetermined number of induction through openings of said plurality of induction through openings along a direction parallel to the axial extension of the channel, said predetermined number of throwing through openings has an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of said predetermined number of induction through openings.
 2. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of throwing through openings comprise at least one group of at least ten throwing through openings aligned along the trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel for defining a row of throwing through openings, wherein the plurality of induction through openings comprise at least one group of at least ten induction through openings aligned along the respective trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel for defining a respective row of induction through openings, the induction through openings of the respective group being spaced from the throwing through openings of the respective group along a direction parallel to the axial extension of the channel, wherein each of the throwing through openings of said plurality has an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of each of the induction through openings of said plurality.
 3. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the extension plane of the trajectory of the group of the induction through openings is spaced from and parallel to the extension plane of the trajectory of the group of the throwing through openings.
 4. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of throwing through openings is defined on at least one perimetral length of the lateral wall of the channel, said perimetral length having an angular extension, measured transversally to the axial extension of the channel, of more than 90°; the plurality of the induction through openings are defined on at least one perimetral length of the lateral wall of the channel, said perimetral length having an angular extension, measured transversally to the axial extension of the channel, of more than 90°.
 5. Diffuser according to claim 4, wherein the throwing through openings are defined along all the perimetral extension of the lateral wall of the channel, and wherein the induction through openings are defined along all the perimetral extension of the lateral wall of the channel.
 6. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of throwing through openings comprise at least one group of throwing through openings aligned along the trajectory transversal to the axial direction of the channel for defining a row of throwing through openings, the throwing through openings of said row being at the same distance from a main development axis of the channel and being disposed substantially along all the perimeter of the channel about the main development axis, wherein the plurality of induction through openings comprises at least one group of induction through openings aligned along the respective trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel for defining a respective row of induction through openings, the induction through openings of said row being at the same distance from a main development axis of the channel and being disposed substantially along all the perimeter of the channel around the main development axis.
 7. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the lateral wall has, according to a cross-section perpendicular to an extension axis of the channel, a circular-type shape, the plurality of throwing through openings and the plurality of the induction through openings being defined along all the radial development of the lateral wall of the channel.
 8. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the throwing through openings are placed closer to the inlet than the induction through openings.
 9. Diffuser according to claim 1, comprising at least three different groups of throwing through openings aligned along horizontal trajectories transversal to the axial direction of the channel for defining respective rows of throwing through openings, the horizontal trajectories being parallel and distanced one from the other along the axial direction.
 10. Diffuser according to claim 1, comprising at least three different groups of induction through openings aligned along respective horizontal trajectories transversal to the axial extension of the channel for defining respective rows of induction through openings, the respective horizontal trajectories being parallel and distanced one from the other along the axial direction.
 11. Diffuser according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of discharging openings defined on the lateral wall of said channel and aligned along a discharging trajectory transversal to an axial extension of the channel for defining a row of discharging openings, said discharging openings putting in fluid communication the chamber with the outer environment and enabling to diffuse air in the outer environment, said plurality of discharging openings has an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of said predetermined number of induction through openings.
 12. Diffuser according to claim 11, wherein the throwing through openings have an air passage cross-section greater than an air passage cross-section of said plurality of discharging openings.
 13. Diffuser according to claim 1, wherein the lateral wall has at the upper end portion, a free edge delimiting a general through access of the channel, the channel comprising an upper closing element engaged with the lateral wall at the free edge of the upper end portion, said upper closing element obstructing the general through access, the inlet of the channel being defined on the upper closing element, and being delimited by a collar emerging from the upper closing element, a wall of the collar having a predetermined number of discharging hatches closed by respective removable plugs; and wherein the lateral wall has at the lower end portion, a free edge delimiting a general passage of the channel, the channel comprising a lower closing element engaged with the lateral wall at the free edge of the lower end portion, said lower closing element obstructing the general passage.
 14. Diffuser according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of hanging elements coupled to an upper element placed in correspondence of the air inlet, the hanging element being spaced around a passage aperture in the upper element and being configured to hang the diffuser to the roof.
 15. Diffuser according to claim 14, wherein the hanging elements are eyebolt receiving suspension cables or rods.
 16. Diffuser according to claim 1, further comprising at least one element for intercepting the air flow, engaged inside the chamber of the channel, said intercepting element comprising a body extending from a base portion, placed at the lateral wall, to an access portion emerging from said base portion inside of the chamber, for partitioning the chamber in a main chamber and in an auxiliary chamber communicating with each other by an access, wherein the intercepting element comprises: a flow adjusting member engaged at the access of the intercepting element relatively movable at least between: a completely opened position, wherein said member enables the fluid communication between the main chamber and the auxiliary chamber, and a completely closed position, wherein the adjusting member interdicts the communication between the main chamber and the auxiliary chamber, said adjusting member being configured for managing the air passage from the main chamber to the auxiliary chamber.
 17. Diffuser according to claim 16, wherein the auxiliary chamber is either closed auxiliary chamber communicating with the external environment through discharging openings placed in the lateral wall of said channel, or an open auxiliary chamber communicating with the external environment through a lower lateral opening, the lower lateral opening being defined between a lower cap and a lower closing element, wherein the lateral wall has at the lower end portion, a free edge delimiting a general passage of the channel, the lower closing element being engaged with the lateral wall at the free edge of the lower end portion.
 18. Diffuser according to claim 16, comprising: an activating element, for example an electric motor, operating on the adjusting member and configured for moving said adjusting member at least between said completely closed and completely opened positions, optionally the activating element being configured for moving the adjusting member to a plurality of intermediate positions, comprised between said completely closed and completely opened positions, for defining a flow passage opening through the access having a width variable as a function of the positions taken by the adjusting member with respect to the container; at least one sensor housed inside the chamber of the channel and configured for emitting a monitoring signal representative of a pressure inside said main chamber delimited at the bottom by the intercepting element, laterally by the lateral wall and above by an upper closing element having the inlet, at least one control unit connected at least to one sensor and to said activating element, said control unit being configured for: receiving from the sensor, the monitoring signal for estimating a fluid pressure present in said main chamber, commanding the activating element to move the adjusting member as a function of the estimated pressure.
 19. Diffuser according to claim 18, wherein the control unit is configured for: receiving from the sensor, the monitoring signal for estimating a fluid pressure present in said main chamber, comparing the value of the estimated pressure inside said main chamber of the channel with the value of the reference threshold, upon said comparison step, commanding the activating element to move the adjusting member as a function of a predetermined relationship between the value of the estimated pressure inside said main chamber of the channel with the value of a reference threshold; optionally, commanding the activating element to move the adjusting member when the estimated pressure inside the main chamber of the channel arrives to or exceeds the value of the reference threshold.
 20. Diffuser according claim 1, wherein the plurality of throwing through openings comprises at least one group of throwing through openings aligned along a trajectory transversal to the axial extension of the channel for defining a row of throwing through openings, and at least one second group of throwing through openings aligned along a second trajectory parallel to the first trajectory for defining a second row of throwing through openings, the throwing through openings of the group of the row being offset along an axis parallel to the main development axis of the channel with respect to the throwing through openings of the second group.
 21. Diffuser according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of substantially flat septa substantially parallel to each other, housed in the chamber, said septa defining among each other a plurality of gaps extending transversally to the main development axis of the channel, wherein each septum has a central opening substantially aligned with the main development axis of the channel, the central openings of following septa dimensionally decreasing away from the inlet. 